Estimating Population Size and Drag Sampling Efficiency for the

Blacklegged Tick (Acari: Ixodidae)

Quote- "As part of a long-term study to monitor relative tick

abundance patterns throughout the year, we con-

ducted drag sampling, in which a 1-m2 panel of white

corduroy is pulled along the ground and over vege-

tation (Falco and Fish 1992) on a “permanent” grid

established in 1987. The grid, measuring 3,600 m2 (60

by 60 m), was sampled 1Ð3 times weekly from late

March through mid-December, as weather permitted.

However, as the numbers of nymphs and larvae in-

creased in the late spring and summer months, re-

spectively, and again in the fall when adults become

active, permanent grids were sampled three times per

week to ensure that the week of peak abundance

could be determined accurately.

For each sample, 500 m2 of area was dragged by randomly selecting

transects through the study grid. Ticks found clinging

to the cloth were removed with forceps, then stored

for later identiÞcation and counting. Mean weekly

densities (ticks per square meter) were calculated and

plotted to determine the seasonal distribution of each

tick stage (e.g., Fish 1993).

Once peak abundance was attained, population estimation

sampling was initiated on a second grid located 􏰠100 m distant.

Routine drag sampling continued on the permanent grid while pop-

ulation estimation sampling was conducted strictly on the second grid."

Full Article

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